AWARD YEAR: 2023

FRIENDS OF THE NORTH CAROLINA MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCES

DIRECTOR: CHRISTINE GOFORTH

PROJECT TITLE: NORTH CAROLINA YOUNG SCIENTIST SOCIETY

In an age of decreasing science literacy and increasing distrust of scientist, it is imperative that young people have an opportunity to experience science in a meaningful way. We propose the creation of the North Carolina Youth Scientist Society, a program to help high school students across North Carolina conduct authentic research following the standard practices of modern science. It is a mostly virtual, year-long inquiry-based program that centers on building scientific research skills through a combination of online trainings and presentations by working scientists. Students then conduct an independent, original scientific research study with the support of our staff before gathering to present their work to their peers in a conference-style event. If funded, the bulk of our budget will go to the students in the form of research equipment mini grants, Symposium presentation expenses, Symposium food and beverages, and travel stipends. Funding is also requested for a half-time staff person, essential technology and online services, and limited conference travel by our project lead. Our evaluation will be done mostly in-kind, with a small amount budgeted for interns for evaluation support. We expect to reach 225 high school students over three years and will focus on recruiting students from underserved populations and/or Title 1 schools. We are requesting $179,400 over the three years. We believe we can successfully increase students’ awareness of the process of scientific inquiry, enhance the students’ enthusiasm for science, and encourage their interest in pursuing science careers. We will also give our students an opportunity to contribute to science in a real and meaningful way.

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